How to Apply for a Driver's License Downgrade?
3 Answers
Motor vehicle drivers or their agents should bring the required materials to the window of the vehicle management office branch or the driver's license management window of the traffic police detachment (brigade) in each district (county) for processing. "Motor Vehicle Driver's License Application Form", the identity proof and copy of the motor vehicle driver, the motor vehicle driver's license, and the motor vehicle driver's license photo. To apply for a voluntary downgrade of the permitted driving model and license replacement at a vehicle management office other than the place where the motor vehicle driver's license was issued, the transfer procedures should be completed as required. If an agent is entrusted, a power of attorney and the agent's identity proof and copy should also be submitted.
A few days ago, I just helped a relative downgrade their driver's license, so here’s my experience. Downgrading essentially means voluntarily applying to change a Class A or B license to a Class C license, mainly for older individuals or those who no longer drive large vehicles. The process isn’t complicated: bring the original ID card, current driver’s license, and two one-inch white-background photos to the DMV. The staff will provide an "Application Form for Motor Vehicle Driver’s License" to fill out, where you check the voluntary downgrade option. An on-site physical exam is also required, mainly checking vision and color blindness. Be sure to clear all traffic violations and points beforehand, otherwise, the process won’t proceed. The fee is just a few dozen yuan for administrative costs, and after payment, the new license is usually ready in about half an hour. The whole process took less than two hours with my help, and now my relative no longer needs an annual physical exam to drive a small car.
Last year, when I was nearly 60, I voluntarily downgraded my driver's license. Although the regulation requires downgrading to a Class C license at age 70, I handled it in advance. At the DMV counter, I stated my purpose, and the staff specifically reminded me that the downgrade is irreversible. I had to submit both the original and duplicate of my old license and took new ID photos. I was initially worried about failing the vision test, but I passed easily with my regular reading glasses. The staff were very helpful, guiding me through the form-filling process due to my age. In the form, I had to check the reason for downgrading, and I selected 'age factor.' The whole process made me truly appreciate the convenience of citizen-friendly services, with dedicated counters eliminating the need to queue. Now, driving with a C1 license is much easier, and I don’t even need to go for annual reviews.
